Valve Cover Removal ???

Okay guys, my search-fu is not working well.

I need to know if I need to remove the cam chain tensioner or need to loosen the tensioner prior to removing the valve cover

1985 KZ1000-P, all stock components

Help would be mucho appreciado!

shouldnt have to just tank and plug wires and carbs

Just make sure to back off the cam chain adjuster before put the cover back on (if you have the automatic adjuster).


Johnbgood

Ok, so I will HAVE TO loosen the tension adjuster prior to cover removal.

This is correct?

Got it

Would this be the same for a 1980? My tach cable seal has leaked the entire time I have had this Bike. I thought it was the valve cover gasket leaking so I took off the tank, took out the screws but didn't seam to have enough clearance to get the cover off. Not until recently did I get a closer look to discover where the leak really was. But I would like to check my valve clearance. She has 21,000 miles and I would think that it should be time? My new service manual isn't here yet so I thought I would ask.

Thanks as always!

Bill

On a kzp you want to loosen the tensioner first. There's a spring and wedge you will pull out and set aside

Bill,

You REALLY need to add the year and exact model of your bike to your signature line. Kawasaki made KZ models over a couple decades in sizes ranging from the single cylinder KZ200 up to the 6 cylinder KZ1300 and everything in between. As you can imagine, they do not all have the exact same cam chain tensioner configurations. Ed

I will do that now Ed. Mine is a 1980 Kz1000 A4
Sorry for the confusion.

Not for pre '81 KZ1000's such as your '80 model; the cam chain is a roller chain and the top guide is a roller idler that is attached to the top of the head with 4 bolts. Removing the cover by itself does nothing to the chain tension.

The later ('81 and newer) 1000 / 1100 use a silent cam chain and the guide is attached to the underside of the cover. When the cover is removed, it relieves the tension on the chain a little. Of course, if the engine is rotated with the cover off, the automatic chain tensioner will do it's duty and take up the slack (if it isn't properly disabled first). If you re-install the cover at that point, the chain will be squeezed down and tighter by the cover guide as the bolts are tightened, which over tensions the chain. This is not good!

With the '81 and newer engines, it is imperative the automatic tensioner be backed off (released) before re-installing the cover, and re-set according to the FSM. Serious engine damage can occur if you don't....

Interesting, I am enjoying learning about these machines.

Thanks!
Bill